Sacred Prelude, Op.1

Abstract

For String Quintet (Vln, 2Vla, 2Vc), on "Masterworks of the New Era", Vol.10 [CD]: world première recording with soloists of the Czech Philharmonic Orchestra / Robert Ian Winstin; recorded at the Czech Radio Studios (Studio 1), Prague (October, 2005). Editions de la Rue Margot (USA) Cat. No. ERM 6812. ISMN M-7200-6025-5. ASCAP Title Code: 492881219. Recording supported by the Foundation for New Music (USA); ca.11 mins.
A natural rubato is felt throughout this haunting, single-movement, chamber work for string quintet. Its much darker than usual instrumentation sees two violas and two cellos set against only one violin (which sometimes, like a single voice, soars high above the texture). The sound is reminiscent of that of ancient church music. Written in the stile antico, it opens with a “Plainsong”, then comes the main central “Anthem”. There is a brief reprise of the opening theme, before the work closes with a more emphatic “Fantasia” (where the sense of rubato becomes almost improvisatory). The work, as a whole, may be said to comprise a poignant “prayer” for strings.